Trump 2.0 term begins — all eyes on him — will he help Imran Khan in Pakistan and go hard on China and Iran?

Trump 2.0 term begins -- all eyes on him -- will he help Imran Khan in Pakistan and go hard on China and Iran?

By Irum Saleem

 Donald Trump assumes office for a second term — Trump 2.0

   His approach to foreign policy is expected to emphasize his “America First” doctrine, characterized by transactional relationships and often controversial decisions. Here’s a detailed analysis of how U.S. relations with key countries might evolve under Trump 2.0, including the possible implications for Pakistan and former Prime Minister Imran Khan:

1. U.S.-China Relations

Under Trump, U.S.-China relations would likely remain strained, possibly worsening. His previous term saw a trade war and escalating tensions over issues like Taiwan, the South China Sea, and technology (e.g., restrictions on Huawei). Trump could:

Reignite the trade war, imposing additional tariffs and sanctions.

Intensify U.S. military presence in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s regional ambitions.

Press allies to align against China’s global influence, especially regarding Taiwan and human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

2. U.S.-Canada Relations

While Canada is a traditional ally, Trump’s approach to NAFTA (renegotiated as the USMCA) demonstrated his willingness to challenge even close partners. Relations could become transactional again, focusing on:

Trade disputes over dairy, energy, and lumber.

Pressure on Canada to increase NATO defense spending.

Strains over differing climate change policies.

3. U.S.-Iran Relations

Trump’s first term was marked by the withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) and heightened tensions, including the killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. A second Trump administration would likely:

Reject any renewed diplomacy with Iran.

Tighten sanctions to cripple Iran’s economy further.

Possibly provoke military confrontations if Iran resumes nuclear enrichment aggressively.

4. U.S.-Russia Relations

Trump’s past friendliness with Vladimir Putin raised eyebrows globally. However, given the ongoing Ukraine war, the dynamics could shift. A Trump presidency might:

Seek a negotiated settlement in Ukraine, possibly at the expense of Ukrainian sovereignty.

Roll back some sanctions on Russia, focusing instead on aligning against China.

Face bipartisan criticism over perceived leniency toward Moscow.

5. U.S.-Pakistan Relations

Trump’s relationship with Pakistan during his first term was mixed:

He initially criticized Pakistan for harboring terrorists but later offered praise for its role in facilitating U.S.-Taliban negotiations.

If Pakistan plays a strategic role in the region again (e.g., on Afghanistan), Trump might engage pragmatically.

Imran Khan’s Case

Trump’s involvement in Imran Khan’s case would depend on the geopolitical context:

If Pakistan aligns closely with the U.S. (e.g., supporting counterterrorism or containing China), Trump could pressure Islamabad to release Imran Khan, especially if it serves U.S. interests.

However, Trump typically avoids intervening in domestic politics unless there’s a direct benefit for U.S. foreign policy.

6. U.S.-Afghanistan Relations

Trump was instrumental in negotiating the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. A second term might:

Focus on preventing Afghanistan from becoming a hub for terrorism.

Rely on regional players like Pakistan to exert influence over the Taliban.

Avoid significant U.S. military re-engagement, consistent with his anti-nation-building stance.

Impact on Pakistan and Imran Khan

While Trump might use Imran Khan’s detention as leverage in negotiations with Pakistan, his decision would likely depend on:

The broader U.S.-Pakistan relationship, especially concerning China’s Belt and Road Initiative (CPEC).

Pakistan’s role in facilitating U.S. objectives in the region, particularly in Afghanistan.

Imran Khan’s potential appeal as a populist leader aligning with Trump’s rhetoric.

Conclusion

A Trump 2.0 presidency would likely create more unpredictable and transactional relationships globally. While China, Iran, and Russia would face heightened tensions, allies like Canada might experience occasional strains. For Pakistan, Trump could be a pragmatic partner, but his involvement in domestic issues like Imran Khan’s imprisonment would depend on Pakistan’s strategic importance to the U.S. agenda.  PAK DESTINY

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